Symmetry, MAK Center for Art and Architecture

April 28th, 2006 · No Comments · Artists, Los Angeles, Writing

Schindler

The Schindler House is among the many 20th century residential architectural treats in Los Angeles. Built in 1922, it showcases an early anticipation of the geometric lines that became more prominent mid-century. It is a sophisticated flash of edgy Bauhaus ideology and aesthetics, in the midst of cheerful California arts and crafts. The plan is forward-thinking as well: the home is designed to shelter two working couples, featuring distinct separations for privacy and shared communal spaces.

It’s interesting enough to visit simply for the architecture and landscaping, but the home is also the headquarters of the MAK Center for Art and Architecture. With a residency program and an innovative exhibition schedule, the MAK Center is a go-to place for contemporary art, and the emphasis is on the complementary pairing of art with architecture.

Symmetry

Sandeep Mukherjee, Untitled, 2006

The Symmetry show, on view through May 21, is an example of the center’s exploration between curation and space. In a building as heavily flavored as the Schindler House, it’s a careful thing to put together a show that enables scholarly interplay between art and architecture.

While not all the work finds that harmonious balance, Sandeep Mukherjee’s luminous, Untitled, 2006, is the notable standout of the show. The dialogue between light and space; the sensitivity of this work to this house; the subtly of the curved edges which arch towards the window and back out on the other side. This piece is reason enough to make an effort to see the show before it closes on May 21.

More of Mukherjee’s work is viewable at State Gallery.

Category: Artists · Los Angeles · Writing

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